Supermac's franchisee lodges appeal against new McDonald's in Mayo

An appeal has been lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála following Mayo County Council’s decision to grant planning permission for a new McDonald’s drive-thru in Claremorris.

Last month, Mayo County Council granted permission for the multinational fast-food chain to develop the restaurant on lands adjoining the Silverbridge Plaza and Shopping Centre on the Knock Road, subject to 13 conditions.

A number of objections were submitted to the council before planning permission was granted, with concerns raised over increased traffic, noise, loitering and the potential impact on residential parking in the area.

The appeal has been lodged by Marston Planning Consultancy on behalf of Danny McHugh, the franchisee of Supermac’s restaurants in Claremorris, Ballindine and Ballinrobe. Mr McHugh was previously among those who made a submission to the council in relation to the proposed development.

In the appeal, the appellant stated that the proposed development would have “an adverse impact on the visual amenity and character of the immediate area and town centre.”

The appeal also argued that the development had “failed to demonstrate that it will not have [an] adverse impact on the provision of services to vulnerable members of the community and those reliant on the function of the town centre.”

Concerns were also raised regarding traffic, with the appellant stating that the development would result in “significant traffic congestion” at the already busy junction of the N60 and Knock Road.

Despite the objections and subsequent appeal, the proposed development has received strong support from Independent councillor and local auctioneer Richard Finn.

Speaking at a council meeting earlier this year, Cllr Finn said Claremorris needed more “brand names”, arguing that the development would attract further investment and create additional employment in the town.